Krantz Aloe is a large treelike multi-headed shrub. The common name krantz
aloe refers to its habitat, a krantz being a rocky ridge or cliff. The
species name arborescens is due to its stem forming habit. Typical
height for this species ranges from 2-3 m. Its leaves are succulent and
green with a slight blue tint. Its leaves are armed with small spikes
along its edges and are arranged in rosettes situated at the end of
branches. Flowers are arranged in racemes. The racemes are not branched
but two to several can sprout from each rosette. Flowers are cylindrical
in shape and are a vibrant red-orange color. Krantz Aloe is mostly native
to the south eastern coast of the African continent. It is now a popular
garden plant.
Medicinal uses: As with Aloe vera, Krantz Aloe has strongly
medicinal sap. In the parts of Ecuador where it is cultivated. it is
considered the first treatment for any type of scratch, bite, or burn, and
is used in hospitals as a primary treatment for burns up to the third
degree. The
sap of Krantz Aloe contains much higher concentrations of the primary
compounds present in other aloes, and this higher concentration is
responsible for the faster and more effective action of the sap against
skin conditions. Like the sap of all aloes, that of Krantz Aloe can be
drunk as a liver and digestive tonic.